Organizational Metastrategies for Younger and Older Workers

Abstract

In this chapter, we expand on a review of literature and previously proposed framework aimed at supporting organizational strategies and practices to better manage an older and age diverse workforce (Parker & Andrei, 2020). The framework, “Include, Individualize, Integrate” (3i), identifies three broad sets of approaches, which we refer to as “meta-strategies,” that can guide organizational actions and practices. “Include” involves strategies aimed at creating an inclusive climate for older workers. “Individualize” reflects strategies aimed at adapting work to specific challenges, needs, and preferences of employees of different ages. “Integrate” involves strategies aimed at facilitating effective collaboration and knowledge sharing processes across an age diverse workforce. We reflect on the implications of the proposed framework for theory, research, and practice, with the hope of stimulating researchers and practitioners alike to think broadly and proactively about what can be done to better support aging employees and to capitalize on the opportunities provided by an increasingly age diverse workforce.